Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A historical Scottish figure: Refers to Robert Roy MacGregor (1671-1734), a famous Scottish folk hero, clan leader, and outlaw, later romanticized in literature.
   • A cocktail: Refers to a specific alcoholic drink, a variation of the Manhattan cocktail, traditionally made with Scotch whisky.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun (Historical/Literary Figure):

  • The legend of Rob Roy is deeply woven into Scottish history.
  • Sir Walter Scott's novel made Rob Roy a household name.

• Proper noun (Cocktail):

  • The bartender recommended a Rob Roy, which is similar to a Manhattan but with Scotch.
  • He ordered a dry Rob Roy, which includes dry vermouth.

Advanced Usage

• "In the spirit of Rob Roy": Acting with rebellious independence or romanticized Scottish pride.
  • He defended his land with the spirit of Rob Roy.

Variants and Related Words

• Robert Roy MacGregor: The full name of the historical figure.
• Manhattan: The classic cocktail (made with rye or bourbon) from which the Rob Roy cocktail is derived.

Synonyms

• Outlaw (for the historical figure): A person who has broken the law and lives outside legal protection.
• Folk hero (for the historical figure): A person celebrated in popular legend.

Related Phrases

• Rob Roy cocktail: The full name for the drink, often used to distinguish it from the person.
• Scotch Manhattan: An alternative, descriptive name for the Rob Roy cocktail.

Noun

1. a manhattan cocktail made with Scotch whiskey
2. Scottish clan leader and outlaw who was the subject of a 1817 novel by Sir Walter Scott (1671-1734)